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Neurocare Project aims to create better retinal, cortical and cochlear implantable devices through the use of improved interfacing between the electronic implants and living cells. The NeuroCare concept involves low-cost,
carbon-based materials, well-adapted for medical implants, because they (i) offer wide range of electronic properties (metal, semiconductor and insulator), (ii) are bio-inert and (iii) are physically robust.
Coupling between electronic devices and neurons was recently studied using "soft", nanocrystalline diamond-based micro-electrode arrays, evaluated in laboratory animals for retinal stimulation. These diamond
implants considerably reduced gliosis, enabled stimulation currents to be raised by more than one order of magnitude before causing visible chemical alteration, and enabled long lasting operation with reduced
biofouling. Our previous experience with nanocrystalline diamond will be directly built upon through the introduction of atomic layers of graphene to diamond surfaces.

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NEUROCARE Project specifically focuses on

Carbon-biointerface development offering reduced biofouling over the state-of-the-art, as set by the DREAMS project and improved biocompatibility.

Interfacing of rigid MEAs and FETs with cells and organs to improve bidirectional communication with neurons for in vitro research and pharmacological applications.